All leave for Louth gardai has been cancelled for the Fleadh Cheoil in August, confirmed the Chief Supt.

Christy Mangan told members of the Louth JPC that it is hoped the Fleadh will be 'a fantastic event for Louth' and gardai will be on hand to help ensure it will be enjoyable for all.

Supt. Andrew Watters , from Drogheda Garda Station said that gardai are meeting with every publican in the town of the Fleadh kicking off on August 12th.

He added that they 'had already had a very positive meeting with publicans' and it was hoped to call with each in person ahead of the week long national event.

The meeting heard that organisers and gardai had spent time at the Fleadh held in Ennis last year to gauge the challenges of hosting such a major event, and are confident in hosting the national competition in Louth.

Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann 2018 is the largest celebration of Irish music, song and dance in the world and was officially launched on Tuesday last May

This year's Fleadh, which is sponsored by the Credit Union, will be held from 12th - 19th of August and boasts some of the country's most talented musicians, singers and dancers.

The Fleadh will offer Louth and the surrounding region a unique opportunity to showcase itself on both a national and international stage.

With over 400,000 people expected to visit the region for the week-long festival, 30% of which are expected to travel from overseas, organisers are committed to promoting Drogheda and County Louth as a world-class tourist destination.

Speaking at the launch, Joan Martin CEO of Louth County Council said commented: 'Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann will shine a spotlight on the region, affording us an opportunity to cement the area as a must-visit destination for both domestic and international visitors.'